Page 88 of Across the Boards

“I haven’t officially decided,” I say, though I’ve already sent Brody photographic evidence suggesting otherwise. “It’s a big statement for someone I’ve only been on one official date with.”

“Oh please,” Sarah scoffs. “You two have been circling each other since that Christmas party years ago. One date or fifty, there’s something real there.”

“Maybe.” I smooth the fabric over my thigh, thinking of Brody’s reaction to my photo. “But if I wear this, everyone will be talking. The ex-Mrs. Martinez wearing Carter’s jersey? The gossip will be relentless.”

“Good! Let them talk.” Sarah’s voice turns serious. “Elliot, you’ve spent three years hiding. Rebuilding your life in the shadows while Jason got to keep the spotlight, the friends, the hockey world. Maybe it’s time to step back into the light. On your terms.”

“I’m actually leaning that way,” I admit, thinking of the strange confidence I felt taking that photo. “But don’t sound so smug about it.”

“I KNEW IT!” she exclaims. “Tommy mentioned Brody’s been grinning like an idiot all morning. You did something, didn’t you?”

I feel heat rise to my cheeks. “I may have sent him a photo of me in the jersey. Nothing scandalous.”

“ELLIOT WALTMAN!” Sarah sounds absolutely delighted. “Who are you and what have you done with my perpetually cautious friend?”

“Still me,” I laugh, “just...testing some boundaries.”

“Well, test away! Tommy says Brody nearly walked into a door at practice. Whatever you did clearly worked.”

The knowledge sends a pleasant thrill through me. “Really?”

“Really. Operation Revenge Hotness is officially launched!”

“It’s not about revenge,” I protest, though there’s a small, petty part of me that absolutely enjoys the thought of Jason’s reaction. “It’s about reclaiming my right to be there. To move on. On my terms.”

“Sure, sure,” Sarah says, not believing me for a second. “Very empowered and mature. Can I still take pictures of Jason’s face when he sees you, though?”

“Absolutely not,” I say firmly, though I’m laughing. “We’re going to be calm, dignified adults about this.”

“Speak for yourself. I’m bringing popcorn.”

After we hang up, I stare at my reflection a moment longer, then carefully remove the jersey and hang it up for tonight. There’s a fluttering in my stomach—anticipation or anxiety or some combination of both. But beneath it, a quiet certainty.

I realize with a start that I never actually told him my plans for the jersey.

What do you think? Too much?

His response takes longer this time. When it finally comes, it’s not what I expected.

I think you should wear whatever makes YOU comfortable. But if you’re asking if I’d like to see you in my jersey? The answer is hell yes. And if you’re asking if I’d be proud to have you wear my name? More than I can express in a text.

Also, Coach just confiscated my phone for “inappropriate use during tactical discussions.” Worth it. Talk later. You’re beautiful, Elliot. In my jersey or out of it.

I set my phone down, unable to stop smiling. For the first time in three years, I’m actually looking forward to a hockey game. To making a statement. To claiming something—someone—for myself, without apology or hesitation.

This is the right choice. For the right reasons. Mostly.

18

BRODY

The game day flow is both comforting and energizing. Morning skate. Team meeting. Pre-game meal. Nap. More meetings. Warm-up. Game time.

Today, that familiar rhythm is disrupted by thoughts of Elliot. The picture of her in the jersey. Sultry and sweet all at the same time.

“Earth to Carter,” Coach barks during our final strategy session. “You planning to join us anytime soon?”

“Sorry, Coach,” I mutter, refocusing on the whiteboard where he’s diagramming Miami’s power play setup.

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